If you’re looking for an inexpensive and fun way to get the kids playing outside, a sandbox is an excellent addition to any backyard. All you need is some lumber and high-quality play sand, and you’ll have the perfect place to stretch their imagination. However, you can’t install a sandbox and then forget about it. Here’s how to keep it safe and clean year-round.

How to Keep the Sandbox Pristine

1. Rake

Regularly raking a sandbox keeps it fresh and ready for play. Children—and sometimes animals—bring sticks, stones, and other natural debris into the area, and it quickly becomes cluttered. Raking through before each play session ensures that pointy or hard bits are gone before the kids hop in. It also keeps the sand light and fluffy if a week of disuse has left it compacted.

2. Cover It

A cover can save a lot of time and effort. It keeps out animals and incidental debris while also preventing sand from blowing across the backyard. Most importantly, however, it stops water from getting in. Wet sand is not only unpleasant for children to play in, but it also gets moldy if you ignore it. Many sandboxes come with covers, but you can also use a sheet of tarp or some plywood.

3. Change the Sand

You should replace the sand twice a year. Over time, it becomes dirty and unsanitary. It also doesn’t feel as smooth and malleable after a while, prompting your child to stop using it. Sand is inexpensive to buy and keeps the play area fresh and hygienic.

If you need high-quality sand for your child’s sandbox, turn to Affordable Landscape Supplies in Burlington, KY. Since 1981, the family-owned and -operated business has been Boone and Kenton counties’ one-stop shop for landscaping materials, from soil and sand to decorative stones and rocks. For your convenience, they also offer same-day delivery to local customers. Call (859) 586-9142 today to speak to a friendly representative and request a free quote, or go online to find out more about their products.